Rare beetle survey begins
The Scarlet malachite beetle one of the UK's rarest and most colourful insects, and this May and June Buglife is asking the public to take part in our new survey.
The Scarlet malachite beetle Malachius aeneus, a beautiful red and green insect found on just eight sites in the UK, emerges from its winter hibernation at the beginning of May. It will live in the fields and hedgerows for just over a month, before disappearing for another year. The beetle is found mainly in Essex, Cambridgeshire and Hampshire, although it was once found in counties across the south and east of england.  | | Scarlet malachite beetle Malachius aeneus © Roger Key | Over the past couple of years you have helped us to find four new sites for the beetle, helping to ensure that this charismatic little animal has a rosier future. This year we hope for more new sightings. For find out more about what you need to do to take part in the survey click here. If you think that you have seen the beetle, please contact us at scarlet.malachite@buglife.org.uk |
